Ready for My Closeup |
The G1 and G2 have a built-in "macro" capability, but for maximum magnification you'll need a set of closeup diopters (a.k.a "closeup lenses"). Mine are an old set of uncoated 52mm Tiffens, in three strengths: +1, +2, and +4. These can be combined (strongest diopter always closest to the lens) to provide strengths up to +7 diopters. Just how close is that?
As a personal reference, I set a few coins on a sheet of black foam and took the following set of photos. I zoomed the lens all the way in, then set the focus manually -- either to the closest possible setting or to the farthest possible setting. This way, I could get a notion as to just what those ranges are.
Note that this is one of those tests where subjective data have come into play, rather than the objective numerically-based tests you may find on other parts of the site. I didn't measure the distances from the focal plane to the camera, I didn't calculate the expected circles of confusion. I just set up the coins on the foam at the foot of my own bed, augmented the morning window light with bounce fill from an off-camera 550EX, and shot the pictures handheld.
I adjusted the focus using the "digital zoom closeup" method G2 and G3 users can skip this trick, their cameras already have a great magnifier.
There's actually a reason for this. The G1's focus display doesn't use numbers in the first place, and my interest was much more in the feeling than the actual numbers: "about this far away, use the +4." The ranges are so short that I was much more interested in the "me-scaled" experience than in the abstract (though surely useful for many purposes) numeric results.
For this reason, I suggest that you take ten minutes and try such a set of experiments on your own, if you have closeup lenses. The scales are usually small, within the reach of your own hand -- and so teach your hands to be your own best guides.
(G3 note: it's not yet clear if Canon will provide diopters for their new bayonet G3 mount)
Min Focus Distance | Diopter | Max Focus Distance |
+7 (4+2+1) |
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+6 (4+2) |
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+5 (4+1) |
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+4 | ||
+3 (2+1) |
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+2 | ||
+1 | ||
Macro w/tele, not always recommended |
None | Sky's the limit! |
Two interesting and useful-to-remember coincidences:
No diopter, min distance |
+4, max distance |
+4, min distance |
+7, max distance |
©2001 Kevin
Bjorke Rev 3 July 2001 Photo Home | Journal | Messages and Feedback | Powershot FAQ | Powershot G Links| Contact | Recent Powershot Photos |